Bernardin de Saint-Pierre 
Paul and Virginia from the French of J.B.H. de Saint Pierre 
An 18th-century tale of love, nature, and moral dilemmas

Bernardin de Saint-Pierre’s novel ‘Paul and Virginia’ is a classic example of 18th-century French literature that delves into themes of love, nature, and moral integrity. The book tells the story of two childhood friends, Paul and Virginia, who are raised in the tropical paradise of the island of Mauritius. The narrative is deeply romantic and sentimental, with vivid descriptions of the natural landscape and the characters’ emotional experiences. Saint-Pierre’s elegant prose and philosophical musings elevate the story to a level of moral reflection that was characteristic of the Enlightenment era in France. The novel is a perfect blend of romance and moral philosophy, making it a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers today. Readers will be transported to a world of beauty, innocence, and moral dilemmas as they follow the intertwined destinies of Paul and Virginia in this captivating narrative.